Yoon Soon-koo, South Korea's Ambassador to Indonesia: "Indonesia Should Speak Up More to Improve Inter-Korean Relations"

【Jakarta, Indonesia—Aulia Maulida Hamdani, correspondent】Yoon Soon-koo, South Korea's Ambassador to Indonesia, said Indonesia could serve as a bridge for peace on the Korean Peninsula and improved inter-Korean relations, drawing on its standing within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its tradition of neutral diplomacy.
Local media reported on the 2nd that Ambassador Yoon made the remarks on the 1st at a reception in Jakarta commemorating South Korea's National Day and Armed Forces Day. Responding to a local media question about Indonesia's role in promoting peace on the Korean Peninsula, he said, "Indonesia is a major country in ASEAN and has a tradition of placing importance on neutrality." He added, "As a responsible member of the international community and a key ASEAN country, Indonesia could contribute to shaping international public opinion on issues concerning the Korean Peninsula."
He continued, "Indonesia has considerable influence in the international community." He emphasized, "As North Korea may listen to messages delivered by other countries in the international community, Indonesia needs to speak up more actively while taking international opinion into account."
South Korea is also open to mediation efforts by third countries, including Indonesia. Ambassador Yoon said, "We welcome all efforts by third countries, including Indonesia," adding, "We hope that the international community will work together to achieve positive results."
The remarks came as South Korea seeks to resume dialogue with North Korea following the launch of the Lee Jae Myung administration. Ambassador Yoon explained that North Korea has continued to block contact with the outside world since the new administration took office and has maintained a particularly hostile attitude toward South Korea.
Nevertheless, South Korea made clear that it is keeping the door open to dialogue. Ambassador Yoon stated, "Despite the various difficulties and differences between the two Koreas, we want to continue the dialogue," adding, "We are very open to dialogue."
He also expressed a willingness to cooperate with U.S. President Donald Trump's efforts to improve relations with North Korea. Ambassador Yoon said, "President Trump has mentioned his close relationship with the North Korean leader in the past," adding, "We are prepared to support his efforts to improve relations with North Korea and promote dialogue."
[email protected] Aulia Maulida Hamdani, correspondent Reporter